"Fall" Into Healthier Habits to Improve Circulation

Before we winter is here, let’s pause to take in the serene fall season. Getting outside, eating healthy foods and choosing activities that get you moving can help improve your overall health and wellness. Check out these four fun activities you can do with friends and family while giving your health a boost.

Pick some apples — According to Franci Cohen, a certified nutritionist, personal trainer and exercise physiologist in Brooklyn, New York, not only are apples healthy for you, but picking them yourself uses a lot more muscles than you think. “Whether you are climbing on a ladder or on the actual tree, if you move at a steady pace, apple picking is not only a fun family affair, but a fit one as well.”

Take a hike — Hiking provides the perfect temperature and outdoor setting for some physical activity before winter hits. Invite your friends and family on a hiking adventure, snapping photos of foliage along the way. According to Pablo Sung Yup Kim, MD, assistant professor of surgery at Mount Sinai's Icahn School of Medicine, “Exercise is always good for the circulation. Walking or running can lead to more calf-muscle pumping and more blood returning to the heart.”

Conquer a corn maze — Navigating a corn maze is a fall staple. You can enjoy finding your way through a corn maze with your friends and family while getting exercise at the same time. According to Cohen, “this can help improve your cardiovascular endurance and increase lung capacity.”

Rake It In — Although the colorful fall foliage is pretty, it can cause a mess in the yard. Even though raking leaves isn’t fun, this necessary task works your muscles and gets your heart rate up. According to Scott Weiss, DPT, athletic trainer and physical therapist, “when the fun is done, know that raking and bagging leaves can burn 200 to 300 calories an hour, making it a great option for fall fitness.”

The fall season offers many ways to spend time with friends and family while staying active.